'It feels fantastic': Menet chooses Eastern Michigan

Christian Menet had waited for a day like Monday since he first picked up a football more than a decade ago.

The Exeter tight end traveled to Ypsilanti, Mich., to visit Eastern Michigan University. He spent the day touring and later conferred with his father, Brian, and his high school coach, Matt Bauer.

By Tuesday morning, Menet just knew.

"They made a very big impression," Menet said of the school and its coaching staff. "You could tell they were great guys. It's a two-tight end-based offense. It was definitely a fit for me. I love blocking, I love catching, I love helping the team. This is all I've ever wanted to do since I started playing at age 4."

Menet, a 6-5, 238-pounder who will be a senior this fall, called Eastern Michigan coach Ron English Tuesday and accepted a scholarship offer. He'll sign his letter of intent during the school year.

The Eagles compete in the 13-team Mid-American Conference. Their non-league schedule includes games at Michigan and Penn State this year.

"It feels fantastic," Menet said. "I can really put my head down and focus on what I have to do and help the team along. I'm looking to go into the season at 240-45. So I've got a little work to do."

Still, Bauer said Menet is already an extremely diligent player.

He caught six passes for 190 yards as a junior, scored four touchdowns, and also played defensive line for Exeter. He's focused on strength in recent months and participated in summer camps at Temple, Boston College and Pittsburgh.

"He's a pleasure to coach in every way," Bauer said. "His work ethic is second to none, especially in the weight room. He's making huge strides. He's put on about 30 pounds. It's helped; his strength has gone way up.

"He's going to be our captain this year. He's done a great job with that so far. He's an excellent leader."

Menet also works with trainers at Xcellerated Speed Training and thoroughly enjoys that part of the sport, he said. He can bench press 315 pounds and holds Exeter's record, 305, for power clean. He'd like to improve those marks before he graduates.

Sure, weight training is a significant part of football. But it will play a key role in Menet's major as well. He plans to study physical therapy.

"At Eastern Michigan, I'll pursue my graduate degree in exercise science," Menet said. "It's been a great process. I couldn't have done it without the team and all the coaches and my dad."